The average human bite force is approximately 162 pounds per square inch (psi).
While 162 psi is the average, the strength of a human bite can vary based on factors like age, jaw size, muscle mass, and individual physiology. It's also worth noting that different teeth exert different amounts of force. Molars, being located further back in the mouth and designed for grinding, can typically generate more force than incisors.
Compared to other animals, the human bite is relatively weak. For example:
- Dogs: Some breeds can exert around 250 psi.
- Lions: Can generate a bite force around 600 psi.
- Bears: Some bears can bite with a force exceeding 1,000 psi.
- Alligators: Can have a bite force exceeding 2,000 psi, with some estimates even higher.
Therefore, while a human bite can certainly cause damage, it is significantly less powerful than the bites of many other animals.
